International flight from Mumbai arrives; transfer (prebooked taxi or hotel shuttle) to central Tbilisi and check in. Allow time for immigration and luggage. Note: flight times vary—confirm arrival time with airline.
Cozy, Middle-East inspired vegetarian-friendly cafe in Old Town with salads, manakesh-style breads, and stews—great first taste of Caucasian flavors. Usually opens ~9:00; confirm current hours.
Stroll winding lanes, see colorful balconies and street art; take the Narikala cable car up for panoramic views. Cable car typically operates ~10:00–20:00 in winter but can vary—check on the day.
Traditional bathhouses with private rooms and mineral water pools—relax after travel. Many open 10:00–22:00; private rooms cost more. Check availability and book if you want a private experience.
Dinner focused on vegetable stews, eggplant dishes, fresh breads and salads—many Georgian restaurants offer rich vegetarian options. Confirm opening times (often open into late evening).
Join a 2–3 hour class to learn to make khinkali (vegetarian version), pkhali and badrijani—many classes start around late afternoon. Check availability and book in advance.
30–40 minute drive; Jvari sits on a hill with views over the confluence of rivers—UNESCO site. Typically open 9:00–17:00; check for winter access as weather may affect roads.
Back to Tbilisi for relaxed afternoon—consider visiting a gallery, shopping or an evening concert. Many cultural venues have winter schedules; check times.
Try a set menu that showcases vegetable-centered classics like badrijani, lobio, and mchadi (cornbread). Reserve a table if you want a traditional atmosphere.
Early breakfast and pick up rental car or depart with private driver for Kakheti (approx 1.5–2 hour drive). Roads are usually fine but check weather in December.
Historic estate with a small museum and wine tastings; often open ~10:00–18:00. Enjoy estate gardens and a guided wine tasting—book tasting in advance.
Many Kakheti wineries serve vegetable-rich Georgian dishes and give taste of local qvevri wines. Pheasant's Tears is known for traditional methods and friendly atmosphere—confirm winter hours.
Walk the fortress walls for panoramic views of the Alazani Valley; outdoor strolling in December is crisp—dress warmly. Town shops sell crafts and local sweets.
Drive to Alaverdi Monastery and nearby Telavi for scenic stops and local markets. The monastery is historic and often open mid-morning; check local opening times.
Drive north along the Georgian Military Highway; stop at Ananuri fortress (~1h stop) then continue through Gudauri (ski area) to Stepantsminda. Check road/weather conditions—mountain roads can be affected in winter.
If roads/trails are passable, enjoy the iconic view of the church with Kazbek behind it; in December the trail can be snowy—consider a 4x4 or local guide. Cable car/hike options depend on weather.
Local guides offer short winter hikes or jeep rides to nearby falls and viewpoints; weather-dependent, so book locally and confirm safety (usually available in winter with guides).
Learn about mountain life at a small museum or simply relax enjoying the view and local hospitality. Many guesthouses offer evening chats with hosts—great cultural exchange.
UNESCO Gelati monastery (medieval academy) and nearby Motsameta gorge—monastery usually open daytime; winter daylight hours limited so visit in afternoon.
Full-day drive with stops; Vardzia is a dramatic cave monastery complex—roads in winter accessible but plan extra travel time and check weather conditions.
Vardzia’s cave complex is vast; in winter access to some parts may be restricted—check visitor center hours (often 10:00–17:00) and guided tour availability.
Overnight in nearby accommodation—in winter amenities may be limited so prebook. Host families are often welcoming and can prepare vegetarian fare if alerted.
Famous for mineral water springs and parkland; stroll the park and sample the spring water. Park open daylight hours; Borjomi-Kharagauli national park visitor center may have limited winter hours.
Stroll the Batumi Boulevard and enjoy lunch at a seaside cafe—lots of Mediterranean/Georgian fusion with vegetarian options; many restaurants open year-round but check hours.
One of the largest botanical gardens in the region with terraces and coastal views—winter opening times are reduced (often 9:00–17:00); confirm availability before heading out.
Cable car gives panoramic views of the city and sea—operational in winter depending on maintenance; check hours (often 11:00–20:00) and weather closures.
Early breakfast and check-out; plan transport back to Tbilisi by domestic flight (recommended in winter) or comfortable private transfer (~5–6 hours by car). Domestic flights run seasonally—book in advance.
Domestic flight ~40–50 minutes or drive ~5–6 hours. In December, flying reduces risk of road delays. Arrive Tbilisi with time for last-minute shopping.